4 Things every Bivocational Pastor needs to know.
There are some things that every pastor needs to know. But there are some things that Bivocational pastors need to know in particular. In my work with Bivocational pastors I have found some common themes come up. These are at the core of the work of the Kingdom and in particular the work of the Bivocational pastor in the Kingdom. Let me share 4 things that every Bivocational pastor needs to know and hopefully address some of these common themes.
- Bivocational pastors are overworked and underpaid.
This is a common theme among Bivocational pastors. The difference between them and the fully funded pastors is they seldom if ever complain about it. Most are cut from a very tough bolt of cloth. They don’t worry about the pay, they just love the ministry. Most are in it for the sheer joy of serving and fulfilling their call. They work long hours in both secular and religious circles and most see little compensation. I have found that most of them are happy.
- Bivocational pastors are essential to the furtherance of the Kingdom.
We talk a lot about strategy and reaching our nation and world for Christ. We don’t talk much about the soldiers that fight the battles on the front lines. Bivocational pastors are at the very front of the battle. The churches they serve in are struggling for existence at times and need resources in order to continue. Many were large at one time, others are out in the open country, and still others have always been small and have always struggled because the culture they are in is struggling. Without these outposts the Kingdom of God would suffer. If they ceased to exist, there would be gaping holes in ministry. Bivos must redouble their efforts, holding the line and keeping the Kingdom growing.
- Bivocational pastors are the fiber of the Southern Baptist Convention.
Those who serve Bivocationally make up a tremendous work force. These men are the fiber of the Southern Baptist Convention. They don’t go to many meetings because they don’t have time. They’re too busy doing what God has called them to do and working a job to provide for their families. They stay focused on their ministry because they have little time to accomplish what God has called them to do. With out them our convention would come apart at the seams.
- Bivocational pastors are heroes.
I have had many heroes in my life. One of my biggest heroes is my Dad. He’s not a pastor; he’s an office supply salesman. What makes him my hero is that he seldom gives up. His tenacity and down-right stubbornness is what I really admire about him. He’s a very hard worker. He still works a full week at age 73 refusing to let old age creep up on him.
The same is true about most Bivocational pastors. I know many that work 40-60 hours a week in secular employment and pastor a church. Some one with that sort of strength and willingness to lay it all on the line should be lifted up as a hero.
If you are serving as a Bivocational pastor, please for the sake of the Kingdom of God, give it your all! We need you. Without you and your ministry to the people of God, we would be in a world of hurt. You are essential to the Kingdom.
May your tribe increase!
